Travel Advisories for Monterey County

Wildfire Season Information

Warm, dry summer conditions make for a beautiful experience in Monterey County, but also brings a higher risk for fires. Wildfires predominantly occur in remote, forested areas away from population centers. It is important to follow all laws regarding open fires, camp only in designated areas, dispose of cigarettes properly and put out all fires in designated areas. Travelers should also have an emergency plan and follow any evacuation orders.  

RESOURCES

• Monterey County Office of Emergency Services - for active alerts in Monterey County
• West Coast Travel Facts - for real-time air quality readings, emergency resources and alternate itineraries for California, Oregon and Washington
• Cal Fire and/or Incident Information - for fire status across California
• Caltrans - for road conditions 

Road Conditions

Road closures and conditions change regularly in Monterey County. Please check the official Caltrans website for real-time updates or contact Caltrans District 5 Public Affairs at 805-549-3318.

Park Closures

The following parks remain closed due to 2020 wildfire damage in Monterey County:

• Limekiln State Park - access to the Park's campground and beach are open, but all trails remain closed

Please visit individual park websites for the latest updates, as well as to learn of possible trail closures throughout Monterey County. 

Updates Regarding COVID-19

Monterey County is open and welcoming travelers to explore its awe-inspiring Central Coast destination safely and responsibly.

We advise visitors to carry a mask with them at all times and to check individual business websites for details on modified operations, safety and health protocols and to book reservations (please see Mask Guidance section below for specific details). Please follow all posted signage.

Monterey County hotels and lodging properties are following the highest industry standards provided by the California Hotel and Lodging Association Clean and Safe guidelines for added preventive measures during your stay. Additional health guidance and frequently asked questions can be found here.

The entire county is working diligently to ensure the health and wellbeing of its visitors, residents and employees. For information on statewide recommendations for visitors and groups, visit the California's Blueprint for a Safer Economy. 

Travel Responsibly

As our destination welcomes visitors to enjoy our county, we ask that travelers visit responsibly and follow safety precautions, as outlined by health care officials. Please practice the following guidelines: 

• Stay home: if you show signs of illness, stay home. Follow CDC guidance for safe travel.
• Mask up as needed: Pack a mask and respect individual businesses safety and health protocols.
• Leave no trace behind: properly dispose of all trash and plastics, including face coverings. Help us keep Monterey County beautiful for generations to come.
• Camp responsibly: camp only at designated campsites to avoid damaging vegetation, causing potential wildfires or camping on private property. Illegal camping is prohibited. 
• Have a plan: have a back-up plan in case the area you're looking to visit is overcrowded, fully booked or parking areas are full. Explore lesser-known areas and try to avoid times popular areas are in high use. 
• Respect the destination and others: Monterey County is home to an amazing diversity of indigenous plants and animals. Leave natural objects as you find them, keep your distance from wildlife and be respectful of others so that everyone can enjoy our scenic destination.

Local/Regional Resources

• Monterey County Office of Emergency Services
• Monterey County Health Department
• Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula – Monterey, CA
• Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System – Salinas, CA
• Mee Memorial Hospital – King City, CA
• City of Monterey
• California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services

For additional questions, please reach out to Info@SeeMonterey.com